I quite often see fellow musicians in the audience. Some are just there to eat, listen and/or celebrate some special occasion. Some are after my job and want to check me out. I don't get nervous; rather I am flattered.
We have lots of famous people come in when they are in town--not to see me but for the food.
I have played in front of Brooks and Dunn, Joe Stampley, Willie Nelson, Terry Bradshaw (he is actually a good singer and cut some albums back in the 70's), Hank Thompson, The Coasters, Brenda Lee, Merle Haggard and Bonnie Owens, and several hard rock bands that I don't remember their names.
I have discreetly invited most of them to sing and some have. I did an entire night with Bonnie Owens singing harmony with me! I played MANY nights with James Burton as "my" guitar player! He just loves to play and seldom passes up an opportunity. Hank Thompson sang a set with me and was at least impressed that I knew and could play all his songs.
I know I'm leaving a lot of names out but the point is that they are people just like us, and they love to make music. They are not expecting to hear perfect in a nightclub, and I can assure you they don't when they hear me!
Competition no longer bothers me because I really don't care too much any more if I lose my job! That would make more time for fishin'! Actually I need to be able to take off more for things like Gary's Jam, or vacations. With the exception of when I was in the hospital, I haven't had more than a few days off at a time for MANY years. Musicians at my level don't get paid when they take off! Don't get paid all that much when they work either!